Real Madrid's start to the game could only have been worse if Alavés had scored, but Casemiro finally arrived to put them at ease. Just after a Pacheco made a save and Benzema hit the post, the Brazilian made it 0-1 after heading in a corner.
After the defeat in the Super Cup and the humiliation in the Copa del Rey, Real Madrid arrived at Mendizorroza with the need to win. They didn't exactly start well as Alavés performed admirably, but they were finally able to breathe thanks to Casemiro.
The first few minutes were tough for Madrid. Abelardo's team came in with a lot of intensity and had several chances to take the lead. They didn't find the net, but they pressed and worried 'Los Blancos'.
But then Madrid made some magic. Benzema forced a great save and then hit the post on the rebound. Just afterwards Real Madrid won a corner that lead to the 0-1.
It was from that corner that Casemiro lept to beat his marker and get the all important first goal of the match.